The Morning Formation (TMF) Podcast

Discover the transformative power of mentorship with insights from Dr. Deborah Heiser, founder and CEO of the Mentor Project. Join us as we uncover how mentorship can significantly enhance personal growth and happiness, especially during midlife, by addressing emotional development and civic engagement. Deborah, an applied developmental psychologist, sheds light on the barriers to embracing mentorship, such as imposter syndrome and societal pressures, while highlighting the profound impact mentors have in encouraging a culture of giving back.

Hear compelling stories that illustrate how mentorship can break cycles of limitation, particularly for those from challenging backgrounds, such as military members and individuals from less privileged families. By sharing personal experiences, including how a college professor changed an academic path, we emphasize the qualities that make mentorship effective—support, honesty, and trust. We explore the parallels between mentorship and friendship, urging listeners to pursue diverse mentoring relationships for a richer perspective on life.

This episode offers practical advice on finding the right mentor-mentee fit, stressing the importance of setting goals and understanding the distinction between mentorship and coaching. Deborah shares insights from her book, "The Mentorship Edge," providing guidance for those seeking to become or find effective mentors. Explore how mentorship plays a crucial role in transitional life phases, like moving from military to civilian life, opening up new possibilities and helping individuals discover unrealized goals. Stay engaged and informed as we highlight the significant impact mentorship can have across all stages of life.

Dr. Deborah Heisen's Website: http://www.mentorproject.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborah_heisertmp?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The Mentor Project Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMentorProject?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Twitter (X): https://x.com/deborahheiser?s=21&t=CVSsNl1bF_SdbXJ6Ez3rBA

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thementorproject7965?si=QWiXyoSMvx1oa9TQ

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-heiser-phd?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

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What inspires someone to risk everything for a fellow human being? On this special Veterans Day episode, we honor Eugene A. Obregon, a remarkable young Marine from Los Angeles who faced this profound question and answered it with unparalleled valor. Listen to the incredible story of how Eugene, on a harrowing day in September 1950 during the Korean War, shielded a wounded comrade from enemy fire, sacrificing his own life. This act of heroism earned him the prestigious Medal of Honor and left an indelible mark on those who cherish courage and selflessness.

Through Eugene's moving tale, we reflect on the enduring impact of his sacrifice, commemorated by memorials such as the Eugene A. Obregon Memorial Interchange in Los Angeles. His legacy is a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the countless men and women in the armed forces who have given so much. Join us in celebrating not just Eugene's bravery, but also the sacrifices of military families and veterans everywhere. May his story, and those of others like him, inspire us to honor the spirit of service every single day.

References: 
https://www.dvidshub.net/video/296811/pacific-hero-eugene-obregon-kw60
https://www.dvidshub.net/search/?q=Eugene+A.+Obregon&filter%5Btype%5D=video&view=grid&sort=publishdate

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ken Kunken, whose journey from overcoming a life-altering injury to thriving as a district attorney is nothing short of remarkable. At 20, Ken faced an immense challenge when he became a quadriplegic, yet he didn't let this deter him from pursuing his dreams. Through sheer resilience and a refusal to accept societal limitations, Ken returned to college in the 1970s, navigated an inaccessible campus, and eventually earned a law degree, proving skeptics wrong. His story is a testament to determination and an inspiring example for anyone facing their own obstacles.

Ken's professional achievements are equally impressive, having been inducted into a mentoring Hall of Fame and leaving a lasting impact on the education system for individuals with disabilities. Listen as Ken shares his most challenging experiences following his injury and emphasizes the importance of maintaining high expectations for oneself and others. He also opens up about his unique love story with Anna, highlighting how personal connections and mentorship have played a vital role in his journey. Ken's narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the potential within everyone, regardless of their circumstances.

In addition to his professional successes, Ken's personal life is filled with passion and dedication. He speaks about his role as a husband and father and finds joy in nature and spending time with his children. With a penchant for football, particularly as a New York Jets fan, Ken shares his excitement for the sport and the lessons it has taught him. His work with the Viscardi Center further exemplifies his commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities. As we wrap up, Ken leaves us with a message of empowerment and advocacy, encouraging listeners to connect with him through the links provided in the show notes:

Main Website: https://kenkunken.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ken-Kunken/61566473121422/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdUUa2hyQF8ubUmEARY9WKA
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ken.kunken/
LInkdIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-j-kunken-b4b0a9a8/


Link for listeners: https://kenkunken.com/

“I Dream of Things That Never Were: The Ken Kunken Story,” published in 2023.
If anyone is interested in purchasing the book from outside the US or Canada, the Kindle version is available through Amazon.com (the US version, not the regional like Amazon.eu or .pl). Here is the link:
https://a.co/d/1t1UWIN

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Unlock the secrets to a seamless military-to-civilian career transition with insights from KP, the dynamic host of the Morning Formation podcast. Learn about his compelling journey from military service to civilian employment and the hard lessons he learned about the importance of strategic career planning. KP shares the pitfalls of relying solely on military accolades and advanced degrees, emphasizing the need for humility, thorough preparation, and the ability to translate military experience into civilian terms. 

Struggling with imposter syndrome? You're not alone. In this episode, we tackle the pervasive challenge of self-doubt that many veterans face during their transition. KP and our team discuss the delicate balance between humility and self-advocacy in job searches. Discover strategies for recognizing your value, effectively communicating your military experiences, and the importance of rehearsing your narrative to resonate with civilian employers. We also critique the shortcomings of military transition programs like TAPS and highlight the necessity of a well-thought-out plan.

Finally, we stress the value of early and strategic preparation to ensure a successful transition from military to civilian life. Through personal anecdotes, KP underscores the stressors of having a fixed end date and the challenge of securing multiple job offers. We discuss how to set realistic expectations, align career goals, and be flexible with initial career choices to alleviate stress. Our goal is to motivate you to take your transition seriously and set yourself up for long-term career success. Join us for actionable advice and insights that can pave the way for a smooth and successful career transition.

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What happens when a dedicated Air Force member’s career is abruptly altered by an unexpected illness? Join us as we sit down with Autumn, a former RPA sensor operator, who bravely recounts her journey from enlisting straight out of high school to facing a medical retirement after contracting COVID-19. Autumn’s story is one of resilience as she navigates multiple asthma attacks, hospitalizations, and a divorce, all while transitioning back to civilian life. With unwavering support from her family, particularly her parents, she moved back to Texas to regain stability and focus on her health, highlighting the critical role of a strong support system during challenging times.

Ever wondered how veterans cope with backlash and misconceptions about their service? Autumn opens up about her experiences sharing her personal story on social media, confronting negative feedback, and finding solace in a supportive community. As we dissect civilian opinions on military matters, Autumn’s insights emphasize the importance of veterans authentically telling their stories. She also shares invaluable advice for young adults considering a military career, stressing the necessity of investing in oneself through education and personal development, despite the hardships encountered.

Financial literacy, self-investment, and therapy are pivotal in Autumn’s post-military journey. She candidly discusses the difficulties of translating military experience into civilian terms during job interviews and the essential role of better transition programs. Autumn’s move to the University of Texas at Austin to pursue a degree in psychology and her aspirations in child therapy or military mental health serve as an inspiration. Her story underscores the importance of embracing new life chapters and viewing transitions positively, no matter the age or circumstances. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that offers hope and practical advice for those navigating similar paths.

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Imagine the life of a former Army Black Hawk pilot who faced immense pressure and severe anxiety, leading to a life-altering panic attack. In this episode, we have the privilege of hearing from Sarah Moore, who poignantly shares her journey from post-9/11 enlistee to aviation officer, and how the intensity of military life steered her toward advocating for mental health. Sarah reveals the prevalent unhealthy coping mechanisms in the military, such as excessive drinking and lack of sleep, and explains how these experiences fueled her mission to support other veterans through her business, Blue Side Yoga.

As the only female service member in her family during wartime, Sarah offers a unique perspective on the emotional and physical struggles faced by military families. She discusses the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, dealing with PTSD, and managing post-deployment pain, as well as her journey from military service to federal law enforcement. This profound realization of the need for mental health resources led to the creation of Blue Side Yoga, a program aimed at helping veterans scientifically understand and manage stress. Sarah emphasizes the importance of reintegrating into family life and finding a sense of home again.

We also explore the transformative power of yoga and meditation for veterans and first responders, with Sarah recounting how a neurosurgeon's recommendation sparked her personal journey with yoga. From overcoming common misconceptions to understanding the mind-body connection, Sarah highlights the mental and physical benefits of yoga.

We introduce innovative virtual training programs like the "Warrior Mindset" and "Mountain Athlete" courses, designed to prepare participants for mental and physical challenges. The episode culminates with an exciting 12-week program that includes a trek in Nepal, aimed at fostering mental fitness and holistic healing. Join us for an episode packed with invaluable insights and actionable advice on mental health and well-being.

All links and socials we discussed (includes links to the free warrior mindset workbook): https://www.bluesideyoga.com/links

Discounts available for 2024 Annapurna Base Camp Trek - $100 off for you and $100 off for a friend to come on our 2024 Annapurna Base Camp Trek. Join Team Annapurna here: https://sarah-moore-1bdc.mykajabi.com/annapurna-base-camp-trek-copy-1

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Support the show

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What if resilience and adaptability were the keys to conquering life's toughest transitions? Join us for an illuminating conversation with John Jones, a Navy hospital corpsman turned Homeland Security federal law enforcement officer, whose inspiring career journey defies the odds. John opens up about his experiences from a high school graduate bravely facing deployment in Somalia, to overcoming medical retirements and reinventing himself as a financial literacy advocate. His story is a testament to the incredible power of preparation and flexibility in the face of life's inevitable challenges.

In this episode, we uncover the essential leadership traits that seamlessly transition from military to law enforcement careers. John discusses the critical importance of discipline, both physical and educational, and the unique value each subordinate brings to a team. We also examine the pitfalls of hierarchical organizations through the lens of the Peter Principle and explore the necessity of self-awareness and humility in effective leadership. Don't miss this enriching dialogue, packed with practical advice and encouragement for anyone in the military or law enforcement community. Connect with John to gain further insights and stay updated with his invaluable resources.

John's Website:
https://ahighercallingbook.com/

Order John's Book Here:
https://a.co/d/aWwrDiv

John's New Career May Help You:
https://www.magnoliawealth.com/

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Transitioning from a military career to civilian life can be challenging, but Lester Lombad, a veteran Air Force and current President of the Southern Nevada Chamber of Commerce, has navigated this journey with impressive success. How did his security clearance and background play a significant role in helping him find a job? Listen in as we delve into his unique experiences as a military spouse and entrepreneur, and how his involvement with the Southern Nevada Veterans Chamber of Commerce has been pivotal in providing resources to veterans and military families.

The Chamber's various programs and partnerships, such as the Emerging Vets and Players (MVP) Program, have made a considerable impact in the veteran community. But what challenges do veterans face in finding the right resources to meet their needs? Lester shares his insights on the importance of raising community-wide visibility for veteran nonprofits and state-sponsored programs, and how the Chamber's efforts have helped bridge the gap between veterans and employers.

Finally, we shed light on the often under recognized veteran populations in places like Hawaii and Las Vegas, and the role the West Coast plays in military outreach. As we explore the support provided by the Southern Nevada Chamber of Commerce, Lester offers valuable advice for other veterans looking to succeed in their personal and professional lives. Don't miss this insightful conversation with a true champion for the veteran community.

Lester's LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/lesterlumbad_official

Follow Lester on IG: https://www.instagram.com/lesterlumbad_official/

Lester's LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesterlumbadsnvcc/

Southern Nevada Chamber of Commerce: https://www.snvcc.org/

Follow us on YOUTUBE! https://youtu.be/8g6L_NN3XGQ

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USA Made socks with a Purpose. 20% off with code: TMF
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Episode Powered By Act Now Education